Artmus - Artificial Muscles

Risø, DTU and Danfoss A/S conducts a research and development project aiming at developing linear actuators based on polymeric materials. Such an "artificial muscle" will supply the force for a mobile system similar to the action of striated muscles in the body. A whole new class of electrically controlled and flexible actuators will open for a number of industrial applications: dextorous robotic grippers, smart valves, advanced consumer products, toys are potential areas.

Within medico technology apllications like a st4earable catheter and other instruments for minimal invasive surgery are likely applications. The project aims at developing an actuator with the following properties:

The groups involved in the project is: Polymers for Energy Technology Programme at Risø DTU, The Chemistry Department at The Technical University of Denmark and the Microtechnology group at Danfoss A/S. For a closer description see under Partners.

A background descriptions of the techniques we are investigating and an introduction to polymer based actuators can be found here.

Risø DTU also conducts research in microfabricated polymer actuators. Jump to the microscopic world and take a look at Elisabeth Smelas work. Video